What is a Dental Emergency?
Unexpected emergencies can happen, and we are here to help.
Experiencing a dental emergency? These are common emergencies that should be treated promptly. Call our dental clinic to ensure we can schedule an appointment at our earliest convenience.
If you are experiencing severe pain, difficulty breathing, swelling, or bleeding, please visit your nearest emergency hospital.
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Lost Fillings or Crowns
If you have a broken or lost filling or crown, try to locate it and store it safely. Rinse your mouth gently with warm water to keep the area clean, and avoid chewing on that side to prevent further damage.
It's important to have your dentist repair the lost filling or crown as soon as possible because without this restoration, the inner layers of the tooth may be exposed, increasing the risk of pain, infection, and further damage.
Acting quickly also prevents food and bacteria from entering the exposed area, reducing the risk of tooth decay that could require more extensive treatment.
Call our office as soon as possible to schedule an appointment for an exam and treatment.
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Chipped or Broken Teeth
If you chip or break a tooth, try to find any broken pieces and store them in a clean container to bring to your appointment, as your dentist might be able to reattach them.
Even if you can't locate the pieces, call our office immediately so our dentists can evaluate the damage and recommend appropriate treatment. Seeking prompt emergency care is crucial because a chipped or broken tooth can expose its inner layers, making it prone to sensitivity, infection, and further damage.
Your dentist can determine if the injury has affected the root or surrounding structures, which may not be visible but could cause serious issues if untreated.
Meanwhile, avoid chewing on the affected side and rinse your mouth gently with warm salt water to keep the area clean.
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Knocked-Out Teeth
If a tooth gets knocked out, call our office immediately. Try to find and carefully handle the tooth by the crown without touching the roots.
If possible, gently place the tooth back into its socket and bite down softly to keep it in place. If reinsertion isn’t an option, keep the tooth moist by placing it in milk or holding it in your mouth until you can see us. Applying a cold compress to your cheek near the injury can lessen pain and swelling.
It’s crucial to seek emergency care quickly because a knocked-out tooth has the best chance of survival if treated within the first hour. The longer it stays out of the mouth, the more the root’s living cells dry out, reducing the chances of successful reattachment.
Acting fast also helps your dentist check for hidden damage to the gums, jawbone, or nearby teeth.
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Swelling, Pain or Discomfort
If you notice sudden, moderate to severe swelling in your face, mouth, or neck, or if you're experiencing significant pain or discomfort in or around your mouth, call our office as soon as possible.
These symptoms may signal infection, trauma, or another urgent dental problem that could worsen quickly without prompt care. Acting quickly can help prevent infection spread, lower the risk of serious complications, and improve chances of saving affected teeth.
Meanwhile, you can manage your discomfort by applying a cold compress to the swollen area, taking an over-the-counter pain reliever, and gently rinsing your mouth with salt water to clear away debris that might be causing pain.
When you arrive at your appointment, our dentists will thoroughly evaluate your condition, identify the cause, and suggest suitable treatment options.
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